How to Build a Microwave Cabinet Above the Stove

Measure the height, width and depth of the microwave with a tape measure. Add 1 inch to the height and width measurements. Add 3 inches to the depth measurement to allow for cables and airflow around the back of the microwave. Note these adjusted measurements on a piece of paper.

Cut two sheets of 3/4-inch thick plywood to the height and depth measurements you noted down using a circular saw. Cut two sheets of 3/4-inch thick plywood to the width and depth measurements you noted. Screw two L-brackets to one of the height-length edges of each height and depth piece using a screwdriver and 1/2 inch long screws. Apply wood glue to both 3/4 inch thick ends of the height and depth pieces.

Stand the glued pieces on the edges of one of the width and depth pieces so the height pieces are flush with the edges of the width pieces, to form a “U” shape. Place the remaining width and depth piece on top of the height and depth pieces to form a rectangular frame. The L-brackets must be on the inside of the frame.

Hold the frame against the wall above the stove, where the cabinet is to be installed. Make a mark with a pencil in the gaps in each L-bracket where screws will be driven into the wall. Decide where it will be best to cut a hole in the frame to allow the microwave power cable to connect to a wall socket. Mark this location on the inside of the frame with a pencil.

Drill a hole in the wall at each pencil marking you made to indicate where the screws will fasten the cabinet to the wall. Push a wall plug into each hole you drill. Cut a 1/2-by-1/2-inch hole in the cabinet where you marked it with a pencil, using a reciprocating saw. This allows the microwave power cable to pass through the cabinet.

Lift the cabinet onto the wall so the screw holes in the L-brackets line up with the holes in the wall. Screw the cabinet to the wall via the L-brackets using a screwdriver and 1 1/2-inch long screws. Unscrew the plug from the microwave power cable. Lift the microwave and slide it into the cabinet. Slide the microwave power cable through the hole in the cabinet. Screw the plug back onto the power cable.